The cold sore virus is actually a type of herpes simplex virus.
Most cold sores are caused by the type 1 version of the herpes simplex virus. About 22% of cold sores are caused by the type 2 herpes.
It really doesn't matter which herpes causes cold sores since they seem to be identical in every way. They look, feel and heal the same.
The cold virus is a sub-microscopic living particle - so tiny that it can hide inside your nerve cells. When latent, the virus will hide in the root cells of the nerve closest to the initial infection site.
Cold sore virus is a master at disguise!
Scientists recently discovered that, when hibernating, the cold sore virus can shut down nearly all function.
This makes the virus nearly invisible to our own body defenses as well as any medicines so far provided by the drug companies.
When the virus senses the conditions are right, it will travel along the nerve fibers to the surface.
It is this travel along the nerve that gives you a tingling, itching and burning sensation at the target area - the first of several cold sore symptoms.
This is your warning that you will likely have a cold sore within a couple days.
Nerve cells destroyed by cold sore virus!
The cold sore virus becomes active only to replicate. It cannot reproduce itself, like bacteria. Once this virus gets to the surface, it enters a nerve cell and forces the cell to become a virus cloning factory.
When the cell is full of new virus, the original virus destroys the cell, releasing all the new copies. It is this destruction of millions of cells in close proximity that creates the visible ulcer.
Your healing system then creates a fluid to cleanse the now open wound and wash away the new viruses.
Use caution as this fluid is extremely contagious. You can infect different areas of your own body or that of a friend or loved one.
Use cotton balls or tissue with alcohol or hydrogen peroxide to help keep the wound sanitary. Try not to touch with your fingers. This is difficult as cold sores itch and are very uncomfortable.
Cold sore virus may be linked to Alzheimers!
As you can see - the cold sore virus is very destructive. Fortunately, so far as we know today, the damage is superficial - on the surface rather than internally. It is not considered life threatening, and it is not known to spread internally.
Scientists, though, have recently discovered that having frequent cold sores may either put us at risk, or be a sign of upcoming problems, for other diseases such as Alzheimer's. There seems to be a link with Alzheimer's as the research continues.
Prevent cold sores whenever possible
It is highly recommended that you prevent cold sore virus outbreaks before they occur. The fewer in frequency and the shorter in duration is the ideal goal, to protect your future and that of your loved ones.
If you will let me, I would love to tell you about a cold sore cure that continues to amaze people. It probably will be the last cold sore treatment you will ever need.
By Denny Bodoh